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ST. LOUIS: Boeing test pilots today took the first KC-767 Tanker slated for the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) on its maiden flight.
Set to make history as Japan's first aerial-refueling platform when delivered in February 2007, the aircraft lifted off from McConnell Air Force Base, Wichita, Kan., adjacent to the Boeing Integrated Defense Systems Wichita facility, and logged a three-hour and 30 minute flight before employees, customers and suppliers.
“This first flight represents an enormous step in meeting Japan's strategic self-defense needs,” said Maj. Kenji Nagatomo, Japan on-site Tanker program liaison. “We are looking forward to having our first KC-767 enter service in 2007. The aircraft has great flexibility in its aerial refueling and cargo capabilities, and will help Japan provide aid to the world's population during major natural disasters.”
The Japan KC-767 Tanker is a military derivative of the proven 767-200 commercial airplane and was selected over its competitor, the Airbus A-310, in direct competition in 2001. It has been configured with the advanced Boeing air refueling boom and Remote Aerial Refueling Operator (RARO II) system.
“This advanced tanker will provide the Japanese unrivaled tanker capability and operational flexibility,” said Joe Shaheen, director of Boeing International Tanker Programs. “Leveraging more than 540 hours and 180 flights on our Italian KC-767 in flight test, this KC-767 will be a low-risk, high- demand asset for the Japanese military.”
Under contract to receive four KC-767 Tankers, the JASDF has selected the convertible freighter configuration, which will provide flexibility in carrying cargo or passengers, while maintaining its primary role as an aerial tanker.
Boeing also recently completed critical Federal Aviation Administration certifications on the first KC-767 for Italy, and will deliver the first two of four tankers to that country in 2007. In addition to flight-testing the KC- 767 for international customers, Boeing is competing for a contract to build 179 next-generation tankers for the U.S. Air Force as they replace their KC- 135 fleet under the KC-X acquisition program next year.
A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense businesses. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is a $30.8 billion business. It provides network-centric system solutions to its global military, government, and commercial customers. It is a leading provider of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance systems; the world's largest military aircraft manufacturer; the world's largest satellite manufacturer; a foremost developer of advanced concepts and technologies; a leading provider of space-based communications; the primary systems integrator for U.S. missile defense; NASA's largest contractor; and a global leader in sustainment solutions and launch services.
